Urgency of Blood in Urine: When to Seek Emergency Care

The urgency of seeking medical attention for hematuria and emergency concerns?

Hello, doctor.
My girlfriend has informed me that she is experiencing a burning sensation during urination and has blood in her urine.
However, it is the weekend, and the hospitals are not open for outpatient services.
Should we wait one or two days to see a doctor, or should we go to the emergency room? If we decide to go to the emergency room, is there a specific department we should go to? Should we call the hospital's emergency department first to check if they have a urology specialist available? Thank you!

HO, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/07/07

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello, general internal medicine is also acceptable.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can discuss and research further.
Answers from the internet should only serve as a reference; if necessary, it is still important to seek medical care at a healthcare facility.
This response is from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of the Urology Department at Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2012/07/07

More Info

When experiencing symptoms such as blood in urine (hematuria) and painful urination, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. These symptoms can indicate various underlying conditions, some of which may require immediate intervention.

When to Seek Emergency Care
1. Presence of Blood in Urine: Blood in urine can arise from numerous causes, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney stones, trauma, or more serious conditions like tumors. If you notice blood in your urine, especially if it is accompanied by pain, it is advisable to seek medical care as soon as possible.

2. Painful Urination: If urination is accompanied by a burning sensation or severe pain, this could indicate an infection or inflammation in the urinary tract. These symptoms warrant immediate evaluation to prevent potential complications.

3. Other Accompanying Symptoms: If the patient experiences additional symptoms such as fever, chills, flank pain (pain in the side), or any signs of systemic illness (like nausea or vomiting), it is essential to seek emergency care. These symptoms could indicate a more severe infection or other complications.

4. Duration of Symptoms: If symptoms persist for more than a day or two without improvement, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Delaying treatment can lead to worsening conditions, especially if an infection is present.

Emergency Department Considerations
- Specialty Availability: In many hospitals, emergency departments are equipped to handle a wide range of medical issues. However, if you suspect a urological issue, it may be beneficial to inquire whether a urologist is available in the emergency department. This can ensure that the patient receives specialized care promptly.

- Emergency Room Protocol: When arriving at the emergency department, be prepared to provide a detailed history of the symptoms, including when they started, their severity, and any other relevant medical history. This information will help the medical team assess the situation more effectively.

Conclusion
In summary, if your girlfriend is experiencing blood in her urine along with painful urination, it is advisable not to wait for a couple of days to see if the symptoms resolve on their own. Instead, seeking emergency care is the best course of action. The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated, as timely intervention can prevent complications and ensure appropriate treatment. If you decide to go to the emergency department, it is a good idea to call ahead to check if a urologist is available, but do not let that delay your visit if symptoms are severe. Your health and safety should always come first.

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